The Ins and Outs of Prosecco Wine

If you’re a wine enthusiast, the chances are that you know about Prosecco wine. While often compared to champagne, this popular Italian wine is different in a variety of ways; from the grapes and method used to make it, to the price.

If you prefer sparkling wine and want something that’s both high quality and affordable, this is the one for you.

We’ve already covered varieties like Pinot Noir and Shiraz, so now it’s time to delve a little deeper into Prosecco.

If you’ve never tried it and are hoping for a little more info, or you’re simply looking to learn something new about a favourite – this wine guide is for you.

 

Facts About Prosecco

Originating from the Valdobbiadene region in Italy, this sparkling wine is made from Prosecco grapes (also known as Glera) via the Charmat sparkling method – a process that produces a wine with 3 atmospheres of pressure.

For any of you that don’t know, this is how long the bubbles will last. As a comparison, beer has roughly 1.5, and champagne has 5 to 6 atmospheres of pressure.

Valdobbiadene has been producing Prosecco bottles for about 300 years now, with several traditional vineyards and wineries taking pride in their work and creating phenomenal wines.

Certain labels of Prosecco are less common than others, like Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG.

This is produced in a micro-region just outside Valdobbiadene and is one of the world’s finest terroirs of Prosecco wines.

While these can elicit a higher price, most enthusiasts will find the extra cost to be well worth it.

The Glera grape that is used to make this fantastic brand is unique in character, as it typically generates fruitier flavours than its brothers and sisters (much like that of pears, green apples and honeydew melons), giving it a sweeter taste overall.

If you’re looking for a delicious, bubbly wine that is similar to champagne, but for a more affordable price and that’s distinct enough to be its own unique entity, you’re going to love Processo.

 

Variations Of Prosecco

Much like with other wines, there is more than one form of Prosecco to choose from – and the type you pick should be based on your unique tastes and preferences.

For a better idea of which one to choose, take a quick look at these main styles of Prosecco to see which one sounds best for you.

 

Brut

Interestingly enough, the brut style is the most popular sweetness level of Prosecco, even though there are others that produce a more sugary flavour.

In terms of sweetness, it’s labelled as being 0-12 g/L RS (residual sugar), which is up to half a gram of sugar per glass.

If you’re not massively into sweeter wines, the brut style Prosecco may be best for you.

 

Dry

The sweetest form of Prosecco is dry. There is typically 17-32 g/L RS (up to a gram of sugar) per glass, making dry the perfect choice for anyone who considers themselves to have a sweet tooth.

 

Extra Dry

In terms of sugary flavours, extra dry comes between brut and dry Prosecco at 12-17 g/L RS (just over half a gram of sugar) per glass.

It’s worth considering trying Extra Dry Prosecco if it’s not your normal purchase, since bottles produced in this style tend to have an incredible balance between acidity and the fruity and sweet flavours of the wine.

 

When And How To Drink Prosecco

When it comes to serving, it’s often best in a sparking tulip glass (which helps to preserve the bubbles’ finesse for longer) and at colder temperatures (generally between 3°C and 7°C).

One great benefit of Prosecco is that it can be enjoyed at almost any time – although it often makes for a particularly nice counterpart to a variety of different meals.

Additionally, it’s one of those rare wines that is ideal as both an aperitif and alongside the main dish.

Often when served with a meal it’s used as a palate cleanser; especially with medium-intensity foods like pork, chicken and shrimp.

It pairs well with spicy curries and Southeast Asian cuisine too, thanks to its effervesce and sweet aromatics.

Due to the fruitier flavour, it also makes for an excellent mimosa drink (2 parts sparkling wine and one part juice), particularly with citrus combinations.

This versatility makes it an excellent choice for any occasion or situation, whether you’re having a celebratory meal or simply a nice drink between friends.

 

Choosing A Bottle Of Prosecco Wine

Overall, when buying any wine, it can be important to take your personal preferences into consideration.

For example, while brut is typically the most popular variety to be found in stores, bars, and even wineries, you may find that another is better suited to your tastes.

With this in mind, it’s always best to do your research before buying.

Another important factor to consider is the classification (which is visible on the neck of the bottle).

Here are some of the main ones that you should look out for when buying Prosecco wines:

  • Asolo Prosecco DOCG
  • Prosecco DOC
  • Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG
  • Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore Rive DOCG

 

Tips For Storing Your Bottle Of Prosecco Wine

If you want to keep your next bottle of wine in top condition for as long as possible, it’s crucial that you store it properly.

Whether you’re an expert on the matter and have a wine cooler or wine cabinet equipped to preserve your bottles for decades or you’re just looking for a few tips, it’s worth taking a look at these few guidelines for correct storage.

  • Try to keep it out of UV light
  • Prosecco is best stored at 12°C., with a humidity between 55 and 80%
  • Make sure that the bottle is stored horizontally

Of course, some bottles will last longer than others and if you’re not cautious, your Prosecco could lose its appeal once opened.

Despite this, Prosecco is certainly a worthy buy; especially if you know how to preserve your bottles for future enjoyment.

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